Finding Safety, Stability and Independence

Starting over can be difficult at any age.

For one woman in her 70s, coming to The Salvation Army of Jamestown’s Anew Center meant leaving a home where she had experienced verbal abuse and threats, and beginning again in an unfamiliar community.

Even everyday necessities suddenly became daunting.

An Anew Center case manager helped her establish a local bank account, update information with Social Security, and resolve problems after her online banking account was compromised. Because she was also living with a serious medical condition, staff helped make sure she continued receiving necessary medical supplies and arranged transportation to medical appointments.

But the ultimate goal wasn't simply addressing one problem after another. It was helping her regain her independence.

Her case manager assisted her in applying for supportive independent housing and helped her navigate the application and interview process.

She was ultimately approved and successfully moved into her new home.

The client later shared that the many steps involved had felt overwhelming and that, without the support she received from The Salvation Army, she did not believe she could have completed them on her own.

Sometimes a new beginning starts with having someone beside you to help make the next step possible.